Simpler Recycling: what does the new legislation mean for businesses in northeast England?

With new recycling laws in England set to roll out, businesses across north east England—from Newcastle to Sunderland, Durham, and beyond—must prepare for significant changes in how they manage waste. The Simpler Recycling legislation, introduced by the UK government, aims to standardise recycling regulations across England, improving waste separation, increasing recycling rates, and reducing landfill waste. But for many businesses, adapting to these new recycling rules may present challenges.

Key deadlines for businesses to know
The government's recycling policy will be implemented in stages:
• By 31st March 2025 businesses and relevant non-domestic premises must arrange for the collection of core recyclable waste streams, including glass, metal, plastic, paper, card, and food waste. Micro-businesses (fewer than 10 full-time employees) will have until 31st March 2027 to comply.
• By 31st March 2026 local authorities will be required to collect core recyclable waste from all households, introducing weekly food waste collections.
• By 31st March 2027 kerbside plastic film collections will be introduced for businesses, non-domestic premises and households.

What do the new recycling laws mean for businesses?
For businesses across north east England, including Newcastle, Middlesbrough and Gateshead, these recycling regulations mean stricter waste separation rules. Businesses must ensure that food waste, recyclables, and general waste are properly sorted at the source, with appropriate waste management systems in place.

While some businesses already align with UK recycling legislation others, especially those historically reliant on general waste collection, may need to rethink their processes. The law on recycling in the UK will be enforced, and non-compliance could result in fines or penalties, making early preparation crucial.

How to prepare for the new recycling rules
With the recycling policy UK bringing mandatory recycling laws, businesses in northeast England must act now to stay ahead of the changes. With the right waste management partner, these updates don’t have to be overwhelming - they can be an opportunity to improve sustainability and efficiency.
The countdown to compliance has begun—will your business be ready?

About The NWH Group
As one of the UK’s leading providers of waste management and recycling services, The NWH Group is dedicated to delivering sustainable solutions. As such, it has years of experience helping businesses adapt to recycling regulations in the UK and has supported businesses through similar recycling laws in Scotland, where regulations have been stricter since 2017. The team understands the practical challenges and cost-effective solutions that make compliance with business recycling legislation more manageable.